FAQ

What are Dental Sealants?

Sealants are a protective barrier for the chewing surfaces (grooves) of the back teeth (molars) which are the most prone areas of decay in children’s teeth. This barrier prevents food and plaque acids from developing early decay on the teeth. Four out of five cavities in children’s teeth can now be prevented. A simple, short visit can put your child at a huge preventative advantage.

How many times a day do you recommend to brush and floss?

It is recommend that children brush their teeth with a soft-bristled tooth brush at least twice a day; once in the morning and once in the evening before going to bed. We recommend flossing at least one time a day, preferably at bedtime. Using a floss tool can be very helpful to access those hard to reach areas of the mouth.

How old does my child need to be to brush their own teeth?

Getting all those teeth super shinny and clean can be a tough job for those little hands to accomplish. Brushing teeth can be tricky for children 6 years old and younger. Hand dexterity and proper brushing technique gets better at age 8. We recommend parents to assists their younger children until proper brushing can be achieved.

What does “Recare” mean?

At Dr. Porter’s office, ‘’Recare’” stands for your child’s regular dental check-up once every 4-6 months. The “Recare” check-up includes a thorough exam, cleaning and fluoride treatment along with any dental x-rays that may be needed. We call it “Recare’” because, as an office, we truly care about preserving those beautiful, pristine smiles!

Do you use fluoride in your office?

At Dr. Porter’s office, we use a topical form of fluoride either in a gel and varnish form. This is applied after a thorough cleaning to a pristine pearly white surface for maximal benefit. According to the AAPD, professionally-applied topical fluoride treatments are effective in reducing the occurrence of dental decay. An additional oral fluoride supplement is an option. At your child’s first dental visit, we can determine if additional fluoride is recommended.

Should I consider whitening my child’s teeth?

On an average, children smile from 400 to 500 times a day. External factors can alter the tooth shading, making the teeth appear stained and discolored. These factors may include trauma, medications, food and drink, or infection. To brighten that front-and-center smile, Dr. Porter offers two whitening options that are both affordable and safe. There are in-office treatments, as well as, continuous treatments that can be done at home. Instead of relying on an over-the-counter option, the AAPD advises that you consult a pediatric dentist in whitening your child’s teeth. Please call Dr. Porters office for your child’s evaluation today.

When is my child old enough for Dental Whitening?

The AAPD advises that a parent wait until ALL of your child’s permanent teeth are fully erupted before dental whitening. This will result in a universal shade match, as your child’s primary and permanent teeth can appear in different shades of white. A pediatric dentist will be able to give your child the most individualized whitening option available.